Master Classes

The Newark international Film Festival has Master classes in acting, cinematography, directing, crowd funding, casting and music in film. Please check back as we add classes to the festival. Please sign up for the NewarkIFF newsletter for more information and to keep up to date with all Festival activities.

This class is FUN, UPLIFTING and FULL OF EXCITEMENT.
We will provide a supportive, non judgmental environment, to increased self awareness and reduce stage fright. During our classes each student will take part in playful fun activities designed
to fuel the imagination by using Team Building, Music, Movement, Poetry and the Art of Acting. This is a unique chance for our students to gain valuable information, build self-trust, healthy self
expression and self reliance while empowering confidence as it relates to day to day challenges.

About Wendy McKenzie
Wendy McKenzie, former model/dancer turned Casting Director, possesses over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Ms. McKenzie has developed a reputation for finding and casting new talent in major roles. As the lead New York Casting Director for the film, Notorious, she was lauded for finding and introducing Jamal “Gravy” Woolard to the title role Notorious BIG.

In addition to feature films, Ms. McKenzie Client includes Fox Searchlight Pictures, MTV, BET, SNL, Glamor Mag. G-Unit Clothing and ooVoo. Wendy has cast actors, dancers and models for numerous Films, Tours, Print Ads, and Music Videos for artists including Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Lopez, Wyclef Jean, Britney Spears, Snoop Dog and Eve… just to name a few. Her experience as a Casting Director has provided her with the knowledge to discern what directors look for when searching for talent. “Wendy really cares about actors and their careers. She opens your eyes to the truth about what it takes to make it in the entertainment industry from the first hand experience of a casting director. Wendy has a passion for enhancing an actor’s ability, which translates into actors landing substantial roles and developing successful careers.

Wendy has taught and or guided many successful talents including Michael K. Williams – HBO “The Wire.” Donshea Hopkins Starz “POWER”, Andrew Trischitta – ABC,s “One Live To Live” and Marquise Neal – “Kinky Boots.” Wendy’s acting workshops are designed to bring you one step closer to your dreams the right way.
Remember… No Dream is too Big… But dreams don’t come true until you wake up and do the work.

Drone Workshop
Raymond Spencer is an FAA commercially licensed pilot with an sUAV rating. He has been piloting drones for four years and specializes in flying drones in urban areas, like Newark, New Jersey. With a Bachelors degree in Film from Rutgers University, Mr. Spencer has incorporated the new technology of flying cameras into a powerful storytelling tool.

If you’d like to learn how to fly a drone or obtain your FAA commercial license, SIGN UP TODAY for the drone workshop at the 2017, 2nd annual, Newark International Film Festival.